Dark Consumption

Research Focus

This lab investigates the drivers and consequences of dark consumption, i.e., consumer behaviors that may cause harm to individuals or society. Our research focuses especially on how (commercial) communication, such as advertising, entertainment and informational media, and interpersonal communication, shapes unhealthy behaviors, including gambling, alcohol use, and unhealthy eating. Our goal is to understand how consumers can be better protected from, and empowered to cope with, this communication and the commercial forces employed by dark consumption industries. The lab aims to develop evidence-based recommendations for practitioners, regulators, and policymakers to reduce harm and promote consumer well-being.

Related projects 

• Rolling the dice of compassion. The role of consumer legitimacy in consumers’ responses to cause marketing initiatives by gambling companies — dr. Steffi De Jans

• GAMSPON Project 

• Sports sponsoring as a vehicle for gambling providers: How gambling sports sponsorship persuades consumers and contributes to gambling harms — Katho Jacobs

• “Act normal!” The role of communication in the (de)normalization of unhealthy commodities among adolescents — Sarie De Graeve
• SUNRISE 

Lab Head

Steffi De Jans

Contact: Steffi.DeJans@UGent.be